A GOVERNMENT scheme which recognises service excellence has singled out Hambleton and Richmondshire District Councils for praise.

The authorities have both been awarded customer service excellence status.

The government standard accreditation aims to recognise public services that are efficient, effective, excellent, equitable and empowering. Also keeping the residents at the heart of service provision.

It is designed to operate as a driver for continuous improvement, as a skills development tool and as an independent validation of achievement.

In his report the assessor said Hambleton had a strong commitment towards a customer focused approach to delivering services with sound policies and procedures and a revision of customer care standards.

He highlighted an “excellent” one-stop-shop for customer services, a good range of information including on the website and good examples of engagement with local people.

Richmondshire’s report said there is a “determination shown by staff to go above and beyond the expectations of customers”.

The report went on to say that staff show a “positive attitude to their approach, a real interest in meeting their customers needs and a desire to deliver what they have promised their customers”.

“These awards confirm what we always strive to do which is provide excellent services to our customers,” said chief executive for both councils, Peter Simpson.

“It is a tribute to our staff, who are putting customers at the heart of our shared services between Hambleton and Richmondshire.”